“We would love to host you in our century old heritage Darbargarh (small fort), in a quaint village of Kutch. Built of local sandstone, the rooms are thoughtfully appointed and retain the heritage and culture of the last century whilst amalgamating the necessities of the modern times. We will ensure you have a memorable holiday.”

Overview

Devpur is located in the historically as well as ecologically rich district of Kutch. It is at a distance of about 40 Kms from Bhuj, the headquarters of the Kutch district. Kutch literally means something which intermittently becomes wet and dry; a large part of this district is known as Rann of Kutch which is a shallow wetland which submerges in water during the rainy season and becomes dry during other seasons.

The Devpur Homestay was built in 1905 as Devpur Darbargadh (small manor) and is located in central Kutch. Built on a two acre area with the local sandstone in the classically ornamental Roha (Kutch) style, it consists of portico, courtyards, stucco pavilions and pillared halls. The Darbargadh is now also listed as a member of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage due to its historical and architectural importance. Since 1994 The White Eagles School is being run by the family in the same campus.

Stay

The spacious heritage rooms in the homestay are all different but warm and comfortable, with en suite modern bathrooms, living and dining areas. The rooms are spacious and comfortably furnished with double beds, writing tables, lounges etc. The rooms open up onto verandahs, cozily furnished with lounging chairs, overlooking the vast compound and the school.

The farmstay is build on natural building principles located amidst a 12 -acre Mango and Cheeku orchard, and is a stone's throw away from the homestay. It has two canvas tents (with a private bathroom each, made of refurbished kavelu or cottage tiles) and two well lit rooms made of earth-dust bricks.

Food & Drinks

Breakfast is inclusive in the tariff and Kutchi / Indian or continental meals are served in a vintage dining room or al fresco. Guests can also learn or watch the preparation of meals with the hosts willing to explain the nuances and expertise required in their preparation.

Activities

You can treat your stay at the Devpur Homestay as a do-nothing break; while away time in your verandah, watch the beautiful Sun rises and Sunsets, spot colourful birds, read, write, paint draw, do the things you love to do but never get the time for. If you are one who likes a lot of activity with Devpur as base, one can visit Mandvi, Dholavira, Lakhpat, Narayan Sarovar, Koteshwar, and Great Rann.

Devpur is also a delight for the bird watchers, trekkers and travelers at large. The area’s rich Culture, Handicraft, Tradition or Archaeology would leave any traveler spellbound and wanting to return again.

Phantom/ Mandrake Tent:

* There is a 15% premium on the following dates due to peak season / full moon nights : 2nd to 4th December, 24th December to 2nd January, 13th to 14th January, 26th to 28th January, 30th January to 1st February

This tariff is valid till September 30th 2018. For the Period of 15th March 2018 to 31st July 2018, 50% off on the published tariff is offered

Location

Devpur is located 40 km from Bhuj and 100 km from Gandhidham (Kandla) by road.

Daily flights/ trains are available from Mumbai to Bhuj. Also an excellent network of roads within Gujarat connects Devpur via Bhuj.

Best time to visit:

Kutch is delightful round the year; except for a few weeks in April-May and September-October.

Rainfall in Kutch is scanty . In August, after a few rain showers the region is filled with lush green landscape, not many travelers have discovered it but this is a great time to visit.

Winters are chilly by the night and temperatures would dip into single digits but days are clear and sunny.

Things to note

Cash and ATMs: We accept online payment but do not have a card-machine. The nearest ATM is located in Nakhatrana (10 kms from the homestay).

Electricity: Power cuts are infrequent but candles and flashlights are provided in rooms.

Phone, Internet and TV: There are TVs in some rooms, and keeping with the old-world decor, those are old too. Wifi is available in the central block and phone network is good. There will be enough things - books, conversations, school and your hosts - to keep you occupied; you will not miss your daily soap!

Pets:No.

Alcohol:Gujarat is a dry state. But if you have taken the alcohol permit for tourists, you are welcome to bring your own alcohol.

Reviews

Responsible Travel

The Jadeja family, for decades, have been involved in the welfare of the Devpur village. The staff in Devpur - housekeeping, cooking and others - are all locals, trained in hospitality. The White Eagles school run in the same campus is something you do not expect village schools to be it is an example in itself. The haveli, more than 100 years old, is built mostly from limestone and did not sustain major damages even during the 2001 Bhuj Earthquake.

How you can make a difference on this trip:

Take the time to interact with your hosts and think of yourself as a guest at a family home. Please don’t expect room service!

Carry a good water bottle and ask to refill filtered drinking water at your accommodation. Refrain from buying numerous plastic mineral water bottles.